Community News

First-Ever Surfers’ Hall of Fame Dog, World Surfing Champion Diagnosed with Cancer

 

by: GoFundMe
Published: March 3, 2026

 

 

HUNTINGTON BEACH...Alex from GoFundMe wanted to share this story of a local legend in Huntington Beach: Beloved rescue therapy dog, Sugar the Surfing Dog, who has taken the SoCal surfing world by storm for over a decade, is now battling cancer. 

The 16-year-old rescue who once roamed the streets of Oakland as a stray, became a five-time World Dog Surf Champion and the first animal ever inducted into the Surfers’ Hall of Fame. Beyond the trophies, Sugar has served as a therapy dog, working with surf therapy foundations and visiting veterans at the VA Hospital in Long Beach.

Now, the beloved surf icon is battling cancer. Her owner, Ryan Rustan, who credits Sugar with saving his life, is doing everything he can to keep her comfortable through vet visits, medication, and specialized care. To help manage mounting medical expenses, Ryan has launched a GoFundMe to support Sugar during this chapter.

“Every donation helps cover what I’ve already spent and helps me prepare for whatever comes next,” Ryan writes. “Sugar has brought so much joy to so many. If her story has touched your heart, any support means the world.”

You can view the GoFundMe here:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-sugar-the-surfing-dogs-cancer-fight